economy
EPA allows sale of higher-ethanol gas blends to lower prices for summer driving
The Environmental Protection Agency is allowing the sale of higher-ethanol gasoline blends ahead of summer in an effort to ease rising fuel prices.
TL;DR
- The EPA is temporarily allowing the sale of E15 gasoline, which contains 15% ethanol, to combat rising fuel prices.
- This emergency waiver exempts E15 from smog-related restrictions, effective May 1st, to increase fuel supply and consumer choice.
- The decision comes as national average gas prices have significantly increased, driven by factors including the conflict with Iran.
- Environmental concerns regarding increased smog have previously limited year-round E15 sales.
- House lawmakers are negotiating the permanent allowance of year-round E15 sales, with divisions existing between farm groups advocating for it and small refiners opposing it.